Why clean your tongue
The top of the tongue has a rough surface of papillae with grooves and crevices. Bacteria living there break down proteins and release volatile sulphur compounds, which smell bad. Removing the coating reduces these bacteria and can improve breath and taste.
A coated tongue is more common with dry mouth, mouth breathing, smoking, illness and after a soft diet. See home remedies for bad breath.
How to use a tongue scraper
- Choose a scraper made of plastic, stainless steel or copper with smooth edges.
- Stand in front of a mirror and stick out your tongue.
- Place the scraper as far back as is comfortable, without triggering gagging.
- Press gently and pull the scraper forward to the tip.
- Rinse the scraper and repeat 3 to 5 times, covering the whole surface.
- Rinse your mouth with water and clean the scraper after use.
How to clean your tongue with a toothbrush
- Use a soft toothbrush, or the textured tongue cleaner on the back of some brushes.
- Brush gently from back to front, several strokes.
- A small amount of toothpaste or an antibacterial mouthwash on the brush may help.
- Rinse your mouth afterwards.
- Avoid scrubbing hard, which can irritate the tongue.
Scraping vs brushing: what the evidence says
A Cochrane review of tongue scraping for bad breath found small trials suggesting that scrapers or cleaners reduce breath odour slightly more than toothbrushes in the short term, but the evidence was weak and long-term effects were unclear. In practice, both are reasonable: use whichever you will use regularly and comfortably.
Tongue cleaning does not replace brushing your teeth and cleaning between them, which remove plaque that also contributes to bad breath.
How often to clean your tongue
Once or twice a day, usually after brushing your teeth in the morning and at night, is enough. Cleaning more often or harder can irritate the papillae and make the tongue sore.
If you gag easily
- Start nearer the front of the tongue and gradually move further back over days.
- Breathe through your nose while cleaning.
- Use a flat, thin scraper rather than a bulky brush.
- Clean at a time of day when you feel less sensitive, such as the evening.
White coating and other tongue changes
- White coating: usually debris and bacteria; improves with cleaning, hydration and treating dry mouth.
- Thrush: white patches that leave red areas when wiped, more common after antibiotics, inhaled steroids and in people with diabetes; needs antifungal treatment.
- Geographic tongue: smooth red patches with white borders that change location; harmless.
- Black hairy tongue: elongated papillae that trap pigments; improves with cleaning.
- Cracks: see cracked tongue.
- Bumps at the back: see bumps on back of tongue.
Other steps for fresher breath
- Brush teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean between teeth daily.
- Drink water regularly and treat dry mouth.
- Stop smoking.
- Limit strong-smelling foods and alcohol.
- Have regular dental check-ups and treat gum disease.
- Treat nasal and sinus problems, such as postnasal drip; see postnasal drip.
When bad breath comes from elsewhere
If bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene and tongue cleaning, other causes are possible: tonsil stones, chronic sinusitis, reflux, mouth breathing during sleep or, rarely, medical conditions such as diabetes or liver or kidney disease. A dentist, ENT specialist or doctor can look for the source. See mouth breathing.
Choosing and caring for a tongue scraper
Look for a scraper with smooth, rounded edges that fits the width of your tongue. Metal scrapers last longer and are easy to clean; plastic ones should be replaced every few months or if they become rough. Rinse the scraper under hot water after each use, let it dry and store it upright, and do not share it with others.
When to see a dentist or doctor
- A white or red patch that does not wipe off or persists for more than 3 weeks.
- An ulcer or sore on the tongue lasting more than 3 weeks.
- A painful, swollen tongue or difficulty swallowing.
- A lump on the tongue.
- Bad breath that persists despite good hygiene.
Key points to remember
- The back of the tongue is a major source of bad breath.
- Clean it gently once or twice a day with a scraper or soft brush.
- Combine tongue cleaning with brushing, cleaning between teeth and hydration.
- Persistent patches, ulcers or lumps need checking.
Questions about cleaning your tongue
These answers are general information and do not replace an examination or individual medical advice.
Is it better to scrape or brush your tongue?
Scrapers may be slightly more effective for breath, but both work if used regularly.
How often should you scrape your tongue?
Once or twice a day is enough.
Should I scrape my tongue before or after brushing?
Either works; many people do it after brushing their teeth.
Can tongue scraping damage your tongue?
Pressing too hard can irritate it. Use gentle pressure and a smooth scraper.
Why is my tongue white even after cleaning?
Dry mouth, thrush or other conditions may be the cause. If it persists, see a dentist or doctor.
Does tongue scraping cure bad breath?
It helps reduce odour from the tongue, but other causes may also need treatment.
Can children clean their tongue?
Yes, gently with a soft toothbrush, as part of brushing.
Sources
- NHS · Bad breath
- NHS · Sore or white tongue
- Outhouse TL et al. Tongue scraping for treating halitosis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2006
This guide is for general information and does not replace medical advice. How a problem is diagnosed and treated depends on your examination and medical history. If you think you have an emergency, contact your local emergency services.